(AURN News) — The U.S. government is now offering undocumented immigrants $1,000 and a flight home — if they voluntarily self-deport using a new federal app.
The Department of Homeland Security announced on Monday the rollout of a first-of-its-kind program through the CBP Home App, allowing illegal immigrants to arrange their own departure and receive travel assistance. Once their return is confirmed, they’ll be paid a $1,000 stipend.
The program, DHS says, offers a “dignified” alternative to arrest and removal by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“This is the safest option for our law enforcement, aliens and is a 70% savings for US taxpayers,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The agency estimates that self-deportation via CBP Home could reduce government spending by nearly 70%. Currently, it costs an average of $17,121 to arrest, detain and remove one undocumented immigrant.
“If you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest,” Noem said.
Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Jamie Jackson:
